While seeking to introduce sought-after skills to new workers, the packaging pre-press equipment manufacturer has also given service awards to Phil Lewtas, Graham Littler, Paul Robson, and Nigel Heaford, who have collectively clocked up 100 years of service at the business.

Hakim Ali and Gwilym Heaford were hired in September to train on a four-year scheme at the firm’s Altrincham premises. Ali will train in mechatronics while Heaford will work towards a qualification in mechanical engineering. Both are being tutored by director of operations and business development David Muncaster.

“Both boys were chosen because they had already done some engineering qualifications at school and college before joining,” he said. “While that isn’t a prerequisite, their prior knowledge and initial training has definitely made them very well-prepared for a busy workplace.

“Apprenticeships are a good way to build skills for the industry, as they have been in short supply lately. A lot more companies are taking on apprentices now which is great for maintaining vital skills. The people who know those skills are getting older and preparing to retire, so we need to transfer their knowledge to young people before they go.

“Obviously, the boys will not be very productive initially as they learn how things work, but we see this as an investment of time as well as money that will pay off massively in the long run.”

Further training initiatives are going forward at JM Heaford as 2018 begins, with an apprentice from a previous year’s hiring being trained in software development. Other members of staff from the 32-strong team are also undertaking a forklift truck driving qualification.

Investment has also gone into the reorganisation of the manufacturers’ warehouse to increase capacity, as well as enhancements for the CAD system.

Muncaster said the firm is “always on the lookout for good people” and will continue to hire when needed across the coming year.